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2012 Health Care Plan Changes

MMBB has mailed all PremierHealth members information about upcoming changes to the plan which take effect January 1, 2012. We appreciate that you heard our message from last year—to take better care of yourself and your family—which has led to improved claims experience. As a result, the 8.6% increase in monthly medical premiums is significantly lower than last year.

A recent survey conducted by the National Business Group on Health revealed that companies expect the costs of their healthcare plans to increase an average of 8.9% in 2012. While we are glad that our costs are in line with the rest of the country, we also realize the hardship these increases can cause.

We are therefore pleased to inform you that generic drug copayments will not increase. There will be a change in prescription copayments for preferred and non-preferred brand drugs, as outlined in the table below. If you are using a brand name drug, now is a good time to ask your doctor if there is a generic alternative. Specific plan changes include:

Prescription Coverage

Increase in co-payments for preferred and non-preferred brand prescriptions:

  • Retail per 30 day supply: $45 and $60 for preferred brand and non-preferred brand, respectively (up from $40 and $55)
  • Mail order per 90 day supply: $113 and $150 for preferred brand and non-preferred brand, respectively (up from $100 and $138)

Dental Coverage

  • HMO plan premium increases by 3.8%; additional changes include new coverage of implant supported prosthetics and changes in the amount paid for certain covered procedures
  • PPO plan premium increases by 7.1%

We pledge to continue our work to control health insurance costs while maintaining high levels of service and benefits. Together, we can make a difference—and you have—but we need to do more. Please take charge of your health by getting the health services you need before an emergency occurs. Certain medical preventive care services are covered at no cost under The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. If you’ve been putting off that doctor’s visit, there is no better time—and no copayment, coinsurance or deductible.

As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to our senior benefits specialists at 800.986.6222 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Our ministry is to serve you.